The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) is the sole ID and competence card scheme for electrotechnical operatives in the UK and has worked closely with the BCIA for a number of years to ensure that a range of cards exists which reflect the skills and competencies required in the building controls industry.

During the development and launch of the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer apprenticeship standard, an occupational qualification structure was developed by the building controls industry which included members of the BCIA, employers and training providers to define and align the skills needed by the industry both now and in the future.

This structure has now been in place for a number of years and has recently been reviewed and updated by industry employers and other stakeholders to ensure this is fit for purpose while maintaining the standard set for building controls engineers in the BEMS apprenticeship.

The new card types include: Building Controls Apprentice, Building Controls Associate, Building Controls Installer (Electrical), Building Controls Technician (Commissioning) and Building Controls Engineer.

Those with experience in the industry, who are not yet familiar with the new card types recently introduced, are advised to take a look at the details included on the BCIA website to see which is most appropriate for their role. With many predominantly working in installation elements, others primarily working on the controls equipment and commissioning – including software & graphics, whilst some frequently turn their hand to all aspects – there is a card type to suit and an accreditation path to achieving it to match.